A FORMER stand-up comedian who gave up show business to become a Roman Catholic priest will return to his former calling for one night only to help raise charity funds.

Father Frankie Mulgrew, son of famous Irish comic, Jimmy Cricket, is starring in Summertime Special, a night of magic, music and comedy in aid of the Diocese of Middlesbrough Lourdes Fund at Middlesbrough Theatre.

Money raised by the variety show, will help people to take part in the annual pilgrimage who wouldn’t otherwise be able to for financial reasons.

“It’s a fantastic cause,” said pilgrimage executive director, Keith Tillotson. “We’ve recently returned from our 62nd pilgrimage and we all enjoyed a fantastic week.

“We hope as many current and past pilgrims and supporters as possible will join us for what should be a memorable night.

“We’ve got some really exciting acts lined up, including some old favourites and some new surprises as well.

Father Frankie studied theology at Ushaw College and Durham University before being ordained a priest in Manchester. He said that the performing gene in his family was so strong, that if he hadn’t gone into the priesthood he’d have probably ended up in Irish dance troupe, Riverdance.

Summertime Special is on Saturday, July 11, from 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 for adults, £8 for concessions and family tickets of two adults and two children at £30.

They are available from St Mary’s Cathedral, Coulby Newham,Middlesbrough Theatre box office or by calling Chris Tillotson on 01642-324043.